Rail shutdown would significantly harm B.C.’s economy

For Immediate Release

VANCOUVER, B.C — The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade (GVBOT) is urgently calling on the federal government to use every tool in its toolkit to facilitate an immediate agreement to prevent a work stoppage at Canada’s major railway companies.

Bridgitte Anderson, President and CEO, of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has issued the following statement:

“Our reputation as a reliable trading partner, already fragile after the strikes in our Western ports last summer, appears poised to take another costly hit.

“A full work stoppage on our rail system would leave Canadians with fewer access to goods and products, driving up prices, and worsening the affordability crisis. Every facet of daily life would be impacted as our national economy grinds to a halt and workers across a wide variety of sectors are affected.

“A work stoppage would be devastating for businesses across British Columbia, especially small businesses, as they are most vulnerable to delays and shortages. Furthermore, congestion in the Greater Vancouver region would significantly worsen as a shutdown of the rail system would prevent the West Coast Express from running.

“From coast to coast, our railway system is the lifeblood of our economy, transporting $380 billion worth of goods annually – over $1 billion a day – and accounts for half of the country’s exports. Already goods are being diverted from Canadian ports, raising costs across the board for businesses and consumers.

“The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade calls on the federal government to intervene and do everything within its power to avoid a strike, including the use of binding arbitration and any other method needed to get a sustainable and fair deal.”

-30-

About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade:

Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Pacific Canada's leading business association, engaging members to positively impact public policy at all levels of government and to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one third of B.C.'s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through unique programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events businesses in the country, providing a platform for national and international business and thought leaders to further enlighten B.C.'s business leaders.

Media contact:

Federico Cerani
Communications Manager
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5450 | media@boardoftrade.com